Many UK landline users unaware of analogue phone switch-off

The UK’s traditional phone network is being switched off in the New Year as services move to digital technology, meaning households with landline phones need to make the transition to internet-based calls.

A poll of 2,000 adults who have a landline telephone in their home has found 53% use it on a weekly basis, but 45% don’t fully understand what they need to do ahead of the switch-off to ensure their phone keeps working as it should.

Landlines are vital for many, with one in three relying on theirs to keep in touch with friends and family, while 29% use it to speak with healthcare providers.

A new poll has revealed 45% don’t fully understand what they need to do ahead of the switch-off to ensure their phone keeps working as it should (Image: Ben Stevens/PinPep)

Nearly six in 10 (57%) said their landline remains an important part of their household, with 17% saying it’s cheaper for overseas family or friends to call versus a mobile phone.

The research was commissioned by Community Fibre, which offers broadband and calls packages that allow customers across London and the southeast to switch easily to a full fibre home phone service.

TV chef Rustie Lee, who uses her landline regularly has partnered with the broadband provider to raise awareness of the change.

She said: “The landline switch-off is one of the biggest changes to our home phones in years, so if you haven’t switched yet, there are a few things you need to do.

“My top tip is this: don’t just accept the first deal you’re offered by your current provider.

“Take a moment to shop around, especially look at the newer fibre broadband providers as they will often save you a lot of money.

“The extra good news is that switching to a new fibre provider is also simple and risk free. 

“You can keep your telephone number, and your new provider can handle the switch on your behalf with your current provider so you won’t have any break in service.”

It also emerged from the research that 48% of landline users are not confident they know exactly what they need to do to manage the transition.

Nearly half (47%) of these haven’t seen enough information about the change, while 33% are confused about what action is actually required.

A fifth (22%) are unsure who is responsible for arranging the switch and as a result, 43% are concerned the transition could lead to a loss, breakage or interruption of their service.

TV chef Rustie Lee, who uses her landline regularly has partnered with the broadband provider Community Fibre to raise awareness of the landline switch off (Image: Ben Stevens/PinPep)

Before taking the survey, which was carried out via OnePoll, 48% were unaware that the landline service, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) could affect devices in the home other than telephones.

These include alarms designed to help elderly or vulnerable people live independently by connecting them to a 24/7 emergency response centre, as well as some home security systems.

Rustie added: “If you use a telecare alarm or other devices that use a phone line, check with the providers of those services if they’ll be affected too, rather than your phone company.”

In fact, 53% are worried about elderly people in their lives being left isolated if they lose access to their landline and other services.

Another 54% expressed concerns that older generations may need additional support to navigate the switchover process.

Peter Rampling, a broadband expert at Community Fibre, said: “The switch from analogue to digital phone services is a nationwide change that is affecting millions of households.

“But unfortunately, many of those needing to switch may not be offered the best available full fibre service by their existing provider, so it’s important to explore what else is out there before committing.”

“Whether you’re sorting your own line or helping someone else to do it, shopping around and switching provider makes absolute sense with the cost-of-living crisis and can save money and effort in both the short and the long run.”